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Grand jury declines to indict Flock pole vandal
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Ohio grand jury declined to indict Cody Morelock for destroying a Flock camera. The decision signals public sentiment against surveillance tech.
Background
Flock Safety's automated license plate readers have faced growing backlash over privacy and misuse concerns. In San Diego, a man was falsely linked to a crime by a Flock camera, and a Louisiana deputy was fired for tracking his ex-fiancée. About 100 municipalities have deactivated or rejected Flock contracts as of August 2026. The Ohio case is part of this broader resistance.
How it unfolded
- Jun 13, 2026Police say Cody Morelock removed bolts securing a Flock camera, solar panel, and support pole in Union Township, causing over $1,000 damage.
- Jul 30, 2026Morelock was arrested and charged with fifth-degree felony vandalism and theft; he posted a $10,000 bond.
- Aug 11, 2026A Clermont County grand jury declined to indict Morelock, and the charges were dismissed.
Who’s saying what
- Support
- Critics of Flock cameras see the grand jury's decision as a validation of public opposition to surveillance overreach.
- Caution
- Legal experts and officials caution that the no-bill doesn't legalize vandalism and that accountability measures are still needed.
Still unverified
The grand jury's specific reasoning for declining to indict is not publicly detailed.